SB 1035 Summary

• Establishes the "Oklahoma Surface Use and Damages Act" governing surface rights for oil and gas operations, including seismic exploration activities.

• Requires operators to provide written notice to surface owners before conducting operations and negotiate in good faith to determine if the proposed use is reasonable and assess damages.

• Mandates operators file a $25,000 surety bond, letter of credit, cash, or certificate of deposit with the Secretary of State to cover surface damages.

• Establishes a court-ordered appraisal process for determining surface damages when parties cannot agree, with optional small claims procedures for seismic exploration operations.

• Imposes treble damages against operators who willfully violate the Act by entering property without notice or failing to maintain required bonding.